Jasper Ponstein

Background

About Jasper Ponstein

I have successfully defended my PhD dissertation in the field of palaeobiology at the Museum für Naturkunde in Berlin (Germany). I am now residing in Tilburg (Netherlands) and work as prospector for archaeological consultancy ADC ArchaeoProjecten. My PhD research focused on the origin of herbivory in tetrapods (i.e. when did the first land-dwelling vertebrates gain the ability to properly chew and digest plants), with a special interest in the evolution of the lower jaw. Other current research topics include the lower jaw anatomy of turtles as a modern analogue, and the presence of ultraviolet-induced photoluminescence in modern mammals (i.e. why do some mammals change colour when exposed to UV light). Besides research, I enjoy engaging in science outreach. I have experience as a museum tour guide, gave seminars on my own research both online and offline, and taught at schools. Ideally, I see myself working in a position where I can finely balance active research and outreach. For publications, see my Google Scholar profile: & hl=nl